The 10 Best technology guides

From app designing to blogging, we all need help with computing. Here are some of the best guides to the new world of IT

1. Cloud Computing Explained, by John Rhoton

Don't know a computer cloud from one in the sky? Check out this exploration of cloud-based computing. Fully updated, it takes a case-study approach – assessing the pros and cons of a cloud-based approach for a given situation.

£25.70, Recursive Press

2. Likeable Social Media by Dave Kerpen

A friend's recommendation is more influential than any impersonal advert, and in the world of Twitter and Facebook, a nod to a product or service is disseminated at light speed. This book teaches you how to make social media work for you or your business.

£12.99, McGraw-Hill Professional

3. Blog, Inc. by Joy Deangdeelert Cho

Gives fledgling bloggers a leg up, with advice on everything from design to finance, developing an audience and overcoming blogger's block.

£10.99, Chronicle Books

4. The Web Designer's Idea Book Volume 3 by Patrick McNeil

This book showcases 650 examples of the best online design around. An indispensable guide to design style, elements, site types and structure, and with the bonus of a handy section on keeping your site up to date.

£19.99, HOW Design Books

5. Content Rules by Ann Handley and CC Chapman

In the digital world, creating a distinctive "voice" can be a challenge. This book takes you by the hand and demonstrates – with case studies – how blogs, podcasts, videos and ebooks can be optimised to play well with your chosen audience.

£13.99, John Wiley & Sons

6. iPad: The Missing Manual by JD Biersdorfer

A "how-to-do-everything" guide for the world's favourite tablet computer. It takes you through how to import, create and play back media as well as giving you the heads-up on how to get the best from Siri and fully integrated social media.

£18.99, O'Reilly Media

7. The Start-up of You by Reid Hoffman and Ben Casnocha

Here the co-founder of LinkedIn applies the knowledge he's collected in online networking (and developing one of Silicon Valley's most recognisable brands) to helping you to make the most of your own career and future.

£7.99, Random House Business

8. How to Get to the Top of Google by Tim Kitchen

Ever wondered why some companies come up at the top when you do a Google search? Well, in this book Tim Kitchen explains why it happens and how you can make sure your foray into the digital world is search-engine-optimised. Whether you are a business, a blogger, or a start-up website, you'll want to get your hands on this book.

£10.48, CreateSpace Independent Publishing

9. Programming Android by Zigurd Mednieks et al

An invaluable book if you want to learn the secrets behind creating user-friendly, up-to-date Android apps. A solid foundation for any app developer.

£34.50, O'Reilly Media

10. WordPress to Go by Sarah McHarry

Easy to follow and mercifully free of jargon, Sarah McHarry's book is perfect for those just finding their feet in the world of online writing. By no means fully comprehensive, but a good one to get you out of the starting blocks.

£6.45, CreateSpace Independent Publishing